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@maurten_official Over the last 15 years at Western States the times have changed. For most people a winning performance would be enough — the chapter written and delivered. That was then. Not Kilian. "When I first went to Western States, before, I didn't really do any preparation. It was just like, okay, it's another race — I’ll just go and figure it all out in the run. Now, we tried to understand the demands of the race when it comes to everything — metabolically, neuromuscularly, and on the temperature — and then try to do the training and strategy for the race depending on those specific demands." — Kilian Jornet It's repeated that the race doesn't suit Kilian — not technical enough, too fast, too hot. It's a statement that ignores his meticulous approach to preparation. An athlete with the ability to adapt — with the discipline to apply themselves to a challenge outside their comfort zone — should never be discounted. For Kilian it wasn't about scratching an itch — he returned to Olympic Valley baked in belief. As in life, we run our own race. Kilian did the work in a way that was unique and right for him. And again, he defied the logic. Performance is more than the blunt numbers of a time in the results page. It's boiled down with sensations, feeling, emotions, and satisfaction — all personal. "At the finish I felt strong and that was a nice feeling — it motivates me more." Third place and the fifth fastest time in history — nearly 80 minutes faster than his previous finish. Progress.
